Unionism in Northern Ireland - Jon Burrows MLA

In his talk, Jon Burrows will set out his perspective on the political challenges and opportunities facing Northern Ireland, with a particular focus on the future of political unionism.

Drawing on his experience in public service and his role as the new leader of the Ulster Unionist Party, Jon will reflect on the health of politics and peace in Northern Ireland 28 years after the Good Friday Agreement. He will examine how political institutions, leadership, and public trust have evolved and where they are now under strain.

The talk will argue that Northern Ireland’s politics must renew itself to meet the realities of demographic change, rapid technological advancement, and a shifting geopolitical landscape. Jon will outline his vision for how unionism and Northern Irish politics more broadly can adapt, lead, and deliver better outcomes for communities in the years ahead.

The evening will conclude with a reception.

Jon Burrows MLA is the Leader of the Ulster Unionist Party and Member of the Legislative Assembly for North Antrim.

Originally from Bangor, County Down, Jon was educated at Bangor Grammar School and graduated from Ulster University with a BA (Hons) in Law and Government. He also holds a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice (MSc) and a Master of Laws (LLM).

Jon served for 22 years as a police officer, working primarily in Northern Ireland with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI). During his policing career, he held several senior leadership roles, including Area Commander in Foyle (Londonderry) and later Head of the PSNI’s Discipline Branch.

He developed a strong reputation for innovative policing, crime reduction, counter-terrorism, and improving public confidence in policing. A central theme of his work was building legitimacy and trust in policing within a contested society, which led to his involvement with the Forums for Cities in Transition.

After retiring from policing in 2021, Jon became a prominent media commentator on policing and justice issues before entering politics in August 2025 as an MLA. He was elected Leader of the Ulster Unionist Party on 31 January 2026.

As leader, Jon has set out a vision focused on political renewal in Northern Ireland building on the achievements of peace while delivering more effective government and better outcomes for communities. The Ulster Unionist Party is the fourth largest party in Northern Ireland with representatives in councils, the Northern Ireland Assembly and both Houses of Parliament.

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